Thoughts on deconstructing, renewing and embracing the qualities (quirks, oddities, imperfections) that make us other-worldly BEAUTIFUL. Includes weekly mentions of the reigning Queen of Other, Kristen Stewart. Perhaps once we shatter the old ideas of beauty, then the need to alienate, segregate and tear down Others will disappear entirely.

A/N: Images displayed for this post are not mine–Thank Goddess for Tumblr, Imagebam & Pinterest. No copyright infringement intended. Click the image to link to its origins. Playlist is working again (it’s probably playing RIGHT now)! Musical inspirations listed at the bottom of post. To open the player in a new window, clickity-click here—> http://pl.st/p/20984139787 Pre-read by a luminous team of Rebel Beauties, led tonight by @kate_suena . If you catch any remaining bobbles, they belong to ME.

“Courage doesn’t always roar. Sometimes courage is that quiet voice at the end of the day saying ‘I will try again tomorrow.'”

HAPPY NEW YEAR, my Rebellious Beauties! It is my pleasure to skip vivaciously into 2013 bearing a couple more definitions for our Anthology of Otherness. I must tell you…well, no, I can’t even begin to articulate how stunned and honored I was at your responses to the last [first?] new Musings.

In the comment section, on Twitter, Facebook and through emails, you showered the kindest and the most exquisite definitions and responses upon me, all in the name of my Royal friend Eeeby, and New Beauty, of Reigning Other Queen Kristen Stewart, and of #Otherness. I humbly bow down to you. Your warm welcome compels me to keep going and continue this… even while things have been especially challenging. . .

So let me introduce you to the contributing definers featured in tonight’s MOO. My friend Dee (@DeeDreamer16) is an OG Muser. Legit. I mean, I think she commented on the very first Musings ever written, two and a half years ago. A sage, articulate and thoughtful kind of gal, Dee is, and we connected almost instantly, through the magic that is the world wide web. Over the years as we bonded over our love of Kristen’s unrelenting badassery, Robert’s increasingly open admiration of aforementioned badassery, and the sweet seduction of the written word (fanfic and otherwise); Dee became a consistent, loving force in my life. She is a supremely gifted writer and has been unfailingly kind and supportive of me personally (read: she has listened to me sob into her ear via phone…several times) and in our celebration of Kristen and Otherness. I am honored that she felt inspired to have a hand in The Otherness Anthology. Annnnd I may or may not have highlighted passages that resonated with me all of it. every dang word. But above all, I count my lucky stars that she is one Majestic Misfit whom I call friend.

Definition: Authenticity

~DeeDreamer

Authentic, adjective.True to one’s own personality, spirit or character. Not false or imitation. Worthy of acceptance.

“This above all: to thine own self be true.” ~ Hamlet

When KJ first presented the idea for her Anthology to me, I immediately gravitated toward wanting to expound on authenticity. What does it mean to be authentic in this modern age of digital anonymity and online personae which may or may not accurately reflect the true characterof the person behind each screen name? This question, especially after jumping into the Twilight/Rob/Kristen fandom four years ago, confounds me. In preparing the definition for this term, its true meaning in terms of Other nearly screamed at me: worthy.

Aren’t we all worthy of acceptance? Don’t each of us deserve to live our lives without judgment from others, especially from people whom we don’t know? I think that’s the essence of being a beautiful person — knowing how to reserve our own commentary, teaching ourselves to put the filmstrips of judgment residing in our minds away on some dusty, back shelf of our brains so we can transcend. If we subscribe to this mantra and follow our hearts, we win — even when we are too blinded to realize it.

I was too blind to realize it back in high school. Looking back even now, with so many years separating me from that girl I was, I still don’t really “feel” like I won at anything. In fact, back then I’d have argued that I was pretty much losing — as in being a total LOSER! — at least in terms of things like popularity and cool friends/boyfriends/parties/whatever. I made a lot of… unpopular choices. I removed myself from what my peers were doing socially because I never — not once — could make myself comfortable doing the things typical high school kids did. I didn’t want to be seen as a priss, and I certainly wasn’t doing anything to stop others from having their fun, but I just felt… Other. It made for some lonely days. Not gonna lie.

But then my senior year came to a close, and yearbooks were delivered. I flipped through mine and saw a gorgeous, half-page ad in the back that my parents, brother, and sister had taken out for me, proclaiming their pride, love and support. Along with their words, my mother had included my (still to this day) favorite Shakespeare quote. Reading it there in black and white, for everyone to see next to my senior picture, was somehow utterly affirming.

Scholars can argue Polonius’ meaning as he spoke these words, but to me, as an impressionable teenager, the words sang to me, echoing through my limbs. They were a calming salve on the raw wounds of teenage life, and I ensconced them in bubble wrap and kept them safely cradled to my heart. They gave me strength to stand by my beliefs. They gave me permission to be my authentic self. They gave me the confidence I sorely lacked and assured me that, indeed, I wasworthy… just the way I was. Nowadays, so many years later… if I had an “Other” button, I’d wear it proudly. Even through the halls of my high school. (Hint, hint, KJ.) 😉 ~Dee

So I guess I should pull out my old button-maker and while I’m at it, fire up the T-Shirt making process too? It has been awhile since my last T-Shirt giveaway…See what I mean about Dee? Brilliant and so kind and spot on.

You all, I’m pretty sure, have encountered the genius and gentleness that is my Katie (@kate_suena), the second contributor to tonight’s collection of pristine terms and definitions. She of course, has authored several gorgeous essays for @KSIBTU, and she is the scribe behind the sublime Lost In A Book Somewhere (have you visited yet? If not, GOOOO); but she also is the biggest Other Anthology Supporter. She was apart of the commencement post with a stunning definition of her own; she was the first of my friends to donate her words. Well…she’s back, y’all. Again, I may have highlighted bits that knocked my socks off…Have a seat and prepare to be inspired.

Definition: [Com]passion

~Kate

[Com]Passion, noun. “Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a great battle.”

I sometimes feel as if compassion is an endangered quality. Especially in “Girl World,” where for whatever reason, some find it easier to focus on the negative and relentlessly tear things apart and each other down.

But then there are those who are OTHER. They bring a refreshing change of pace to this antagonism. I see PASSION as a key part of compassion; if one feels ardently about something, or someone, this is reflected in the compassion they display.

By consistently recognising Other in the world, our view allows us to be aware of what is important and react accordingly, simultaneously disregarding frivolous non-concerns.

A tangible, important example that springs to mind is the response to the havoc that Hurricane Sandy wreaked. I find witnessing Mother Nature unleash her fury terrifying; there’s a sense of hopelessness as you watch natural events unfold (and I’ve never even experienced any such destruction firsthand!). But in the days following the storm, I saw an online show on compassion that restored the hope that Mother Nature had temporarily interrupted: one person donated to the Red Cross and ignited a spark.

Soon my Twitter and Instagram feeds were FULL of people sharing how they were donating and therefore helping those thousands of miles away from them, subsequently encouraging [O]thers to do so as well. These compassionate people from all over the United States and around the WORLD were doing their part to assist people they had never even met.

How beautiful is that? Queens of Other and Royal Rebels are unbeatable proof that caring and compassion are alive and well in this world. ~Kate

Definition: Courageous

~KJ

“Freedom lies in being bold.”
~ Robert Frost

Over the past six months, I have seen courage manifest in the most awe-inspiring of situations, and in gloriously royal people. After a hellacious summer, Our Reinging Other Queen Kristen proved her resilience and fortitude by stepping into the relentless spotlight and unblinking camera lenses to dialogue about a project of great personal significance to her. Despite the countless glaring gazes fixed upon her, and the judgments, diagnoses already conjured and proclaimed, Ms Stewart remained poised, and throughout even while vulnerable and exposed .

So, she persisted. She moved onward (in perfect shoes).

These days, I have been struggling to find my own valor… I realize the work I’m doing at my counseling agency and with The Red Cross has depleted my abilities to regenerate and provide compassion for my own weariness. My personal relationships are suffering severely and my physical body is run down. I know that getting out the door each day in the morning is an act of courage in itself, when all I want to do is huddle in a dark corner and weep. But I do climb out of bed and push through the door, regardless.

Now, that is little ole ME lamenting on the copious reserves of bravery I’m trying to locate within myself.

I do not have swarms of vultures toting cameras circling outside my house, stalking. I do not have warring factions of “superfans” determining my worth based on a self-made (read: absurdly skewed) psychological theory touted allover Twitter.

But Kristen Stewart does.

And excepting when she’s in SuperStealthNinja Mode, Kristen still. shows. UP. And she’s all beautiful and brainy and breathtakingly articulate when she arrives.

Other Emerging

I believe it takes a tremendous amount of courage to be authentic and [com]passionate. As both Dee and Katie illustrated earlier, it is not the easiest of decisions to represent an idea or image that deviates from the conventional schemata. I have watched, awed, by Ms Stewart’s ability to remain congruent and grounded, even in the midst of extreme, incomparable challenges…It is why she is, after all these years, Queen Royal Rebel. She wears the shiniest crown.

courtesy of (c)KinoPhotography

Soooo these are the newest definitions to catalogue in our expanding Anthology of Otherness. Thank you for rolling with me into this new year. Thank you for sending in your most incredible ideas and thoughts on what “Other” means for you. I will try and feature every contribution I receive, even–especially–those left in the comment section and emails. I maintain always that Musings’ readers are the most incandescent of souls. You continuously, wonderfully, confirm this.

We are Other.

Kristen is Other.

Others are freed by their bold, [com]passionate authenticity.

Embrace Your Other.

* * *

QUESTION[s]: How has your relationship with authenticity, [com]passion and courage evolved over the year? How did you greet the new year?

A/N: Next time, which will hopefully be within just a few days, I will bring a few more essays to you. I’m pleased to tell you that the lovely Emma (@ItsAlwaysEmma) has contributed a definition to the Anthology that makes me weak in the knees…and the voraciously brilliant and funny CC of @KSIBTU and I are collaborating on a conversation about On The Road and #TheMadOnes that I am dying to delve into with you all.

A/N: The images displayed in this essay are not mine–Thank Goddess for Tumblr, Imagebam, Pinterest and my friend @LiveLoveKStew. No copyright infringement intended. Click the image for a link to its origins. Totally unbeta’d, so any mistakes and stumbles belong to Moi. Musical playlist, per usual, at the bottom and at this link–> (http://pl.st/p/20984139787) Click the “Sign Me Up!” button in the side panel to receive MOO updates in your Email. You know, because my ‘updates’ come atcha all kinds of b-a-n-a-n-a-s.

Hello, Lovelies. I KNOW. I know. It’s been criminally long, it’s been overwhelming, it’s been epic. As you can imagine, I am just as consumed and enamored as you are with all the incredible moments of Otherness and Rebellious Beauty that has been bestowed upon us in these weeks we’ve been apart. I disappeared for a ten day vacation last month which was nourishing and revitalizing in itself [and I met up with lovely souls in lovely places including @MyCleverAlias @Buff_82 and @Beammeup_00] and then the floodgates lifted and we were bombarded with blessings.

I’m on the pursuit of happiness, and I know

Everything that shine ain’t always gonna be gold

Hey, I’ll be fine once I get it, I’ll be good ~Kid Cudi

I will attempt addressing these gifts in the next series of new Musings. Starting with today’s post, in the form of a MOO Memo dedicated to three very special women in my life: @MyCleverAlias, @Nail and my gorgeous Bestie @SL. It’s just a primer-post, because I’m emerging from another vacuous lull in which my 3D life opened up a can of whoop-ass on me. And also, fact is, there were too many significant episodes we witnessed over these weeks and I didn’t want to leave anything out. Got a little stressful, y’know?

And, lastly, it is now, JUNE, that I am celebrating a major personal anniversary: MUSINGS ON OTHER QUEENS isTWO YEARS OLD!!!

Remember when I pushed ‘Publish’ June 3, 2010, Remember???

I want to give proper accolades to this little ‘blog’ o’ mine… this space and community that has changed, no, revolutionized my life. And I really hope to express my utmost gratitude to the muse and original Queen of Other: Kristen Jaymes Stewart. If only she would grant us a moment to catch our breath…

Graham Norton show

The three ladies I mentioned earlier are my muses today for a few reasons. Nail, because she always loves herself a juicy Muselet and she teaches me about succinctness and reframing and she counsels me on how to laugh at the atrocious, illogical theorizing of some of the Vultures/BullShitPeople/AssClowns out there in this community that peck away at my RebelRoyal-induced high.

VampBella showin us how it’s gon BE. #Boss

MyCleverAlias [or MCA as we know her ’round the hood] is an OG Musings reader, from over two years ago, who enchanted me with her intelligent, articulate comments on the website, and then her fair but informed observations on this community. I also had the distinct privilege of spending nearly every day of one week with her last summer when she and my beloved @Kate_Suena visited my beautiful city–we’re approaching our Year Anniversary of that visit, Ladies! Also, MCA has been gone for several weeks while traveling throughout South Africa [I know, swoooon], so I thought that a mini StewReview might be just what we thirsty fangirls need to replenish our souls. [Note: Though it’s taken me so damn long to break through this block to write, she’s not only up to date already probably, but she could clue me in to a few things]

My Bestie, who we’ll call @SL, is a muse in so many ways for me, but she inspires lately because a) I just saw her when I took my trip to the East Coast, for the first time in over five years and I wanted to weep when I thought about leaving her again b) She is ethereal–exotic– simply beautifuland she has her fair share of experience defending her choices for OTHERNESS because of her physical attributes, but also for her unorthodox approach to life (i.e. she was sooo fucking punk rock and brilliant that people didn’t know how to approach such an intimidating beauty). Lastly, my lovely SL just recently discovered the sheer gravity of a book series known as Twilight and when I came to visit her in May, she was glued to her Kindle. Her husband (another one of my best friends from college) bemoaned the loss of his wife. “Hey thanks for that, by the way,” he said to me, throwing vitriolic glances at SL’s otherwise occupied form (she was longingly gazing at her Kindle, where a bookmarked page in Eclipse awaited).

we may know a little something about this series

Sooooo *motioning for you all to lean in again*….

Today’s MOO Memo is just a little roadmap of what is coming down the pike. I’ve been away for several weeks (and there are STORIES), MCA has been away (and there are STORIES), SL is new to the Twi-Kristen-Rob-RoyalRebel Community (at least in this kind of forum, and we have gotta update her on our Otherness STORIES), and my girl Nail certainly deserves a ‘let’ (anything shortened is automatically softer, cuter, more compelling, you see). Like a capelet a leaflet, and uh…a piglet.

This is what we know:

Kristen, our Reigning Queen of Otherness, has emerged as the Royalty that she is. This is her time. Since Musing last, our most esteemed Majestic Misfit has shown up all over the planet [in record time, btw]in the name of promoting Snow White and the Huntsman, all while appearing fresh, confident, stylish and proud.

Shhhooooooes. And Sam’s dimples.

How absurdly beautiful is this cast???

via KStewartFans

It was during this round of interviews that our Reinging Other Queen eloquently and thoughtfully articulated her definitions of “beauty”…which, according to her MajesticMisftness, is composed of authenticity, compassion, and congruence.

“BE YOURSELF, BABYDOLL.” ~Kristen Stewart

. . . and in an awe-inspiring episode of sublimity her world-gallivanting included an appearance at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival in representation for On The Road.

future’s so bright…she’s gotta wear ’em

You’ll notice that these pictures are only little tastes of the magic that actually occurred at the time…this is merely a StewReview for my girls, and to dip my toe back in the posting pool. Summer’s Musings posting schedule is going to consist of in-depth reviews of many of these events… like the rousing success of SWATH.

RoyalRebel in the hizzouse

Her stop by the MTV Awards, for what I see as the passing of the baton [Girlfriend’s got places to go, movies to produce, ok? Thxbai PopcornStatues]. . .

She’s got this one, Rob.

The Magazine Covers and accompanying print interviews…Oh mah GAWD…Most of which (the ones I could get my paws on) will be apart of a nearly-weekly MOO GIVEAWAY. . . .

I tweeted last week–I can tell you all now, as I no longer work there–that for the past 8 months I was supplementing my income as a private practitioner with a lovely job as the children’s department lead at Barnes & Noble Bookstore. There were so many benefits, but the most important and coveted pro being my full and immediate access to the receiving boxes at the back of the store. That and being surrounded by words, words, magnificent words!!! In the picture below you’ll see tidbits of my life there: I found several inspirational guides–including a new feature for Summertime MOOs– and the sexiest bit of all: thesauri.

The true Barnes & Noble Advantage

We absolutely will take time to review #SWATH, the film, together (I saw it three times. You?), and we’ll talk about the final countdown to Breaking Dawn part 2. You’ve seen the trailer, right? And you’ve picked up your traditional Entertainment Weekly I assume. MCA is a an absolute angel and is picking up a copy of it for me, and I was able to scrounge up a couple EWs with Edward, Bella, the cute Teeth Baby and the Shirtless Wonder on the front. They’ll be apart of the great MOO Magazine Giveaway too.

many, many thoughts

We’ll talk a little bit about our progress in pursuing Bliss–you know I have a new job now, yes? I LOVE IT. I LOVE LOVE LOVE IT. It’s the job I wrote about, in last Musings. where I somehow conjured up courage to apply, and now I’m doing everything I love about everything I’ve ever known and I’m helping teenagers and children and their families try to catch their breath and find their paths… and did I mention I lovelovelove it??? More about that next time.

But I’m so excited to share with you some other Blissful Plans that are emerging re: the Magical Little Practice [hint: we’re going global, Babies. Ain’t gonna be so ‘little’ much longer], and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts about that. We’re still #OtheringOnward, my friends.

Ok, NO. I did not omit the most spellbinding, game-changing, heart-bursting jubilee that we witnessed…I am not forgetting about the extraordinarily profound moments that coalesced at that prestigious little film festival in France. In fact….the next 2 (or 3?) new Musings are going to focus on that time period. Where everything came to be. Where everything…aligned. Where Marylou breathed life and love and spontaneity and went On the Road in search of the Elusive ‘It’ with a couple of her boys….

…Where the actress who portrayed Marylou in the film received a 5 [or 8 or 10?] minute standing ovation along with her co-stars and fellow filmmakers at said prestigious film premiere. Same place where the artist, Kristen Jaymes Stewart, was the recipient of accolades, praise and the best critical reviews of her entire illustrious career .

It was there, along the French Rivera that the lovely Ms Stewart–Her Majesty, as we refer to her here in #OtherLand–arrived on yet another red carpet premiere in support for a film starring one Mr Robert Pattinson…looking…well, looking like THIS:

So you can rest easy now, my loves. KNOW that we will address, cry a little, discuss all the incredible events that occurred at Cannes. For both Kristen and for her equally beautiful partner in crime, fellow RoyalRebel, Robert. In fact…As I’ve stated before, we’re bringing back the FEATURED Royal Rebel highlight to Musings…and poetically, after two years of writing about these rebels, coming full circle, we’ll be talking about him. Robert Pattinson. In depth. Because it’s time. It’s their time.

Welllllllll…MCA, Nai, SL…This is my catch-up post for you, for me, for Musings Readers. We have so many new adventures ahead, and a third year of Musings to explore, pursue, and celebrate. A whole lotta OTHERING ONWARD…so here…we …go. See you again real soon. Like, Thursday and this weekend…and ….and….xo, KJ

* * *

QUESTION: What are you most excited to discuss among the events that our Reigning Other Queen participated in…? What are you looking forward to in this next year? Talk to me, lovelies.

A/N: The images displayed in this essay are not mine–Thank Goddess for Tumblr and Imagebam. No copyright infringement intended. Click the image for a link to its origins. Totally unbeta’d, so any mistakes and stumbles belong to MEEEEEE. Musical playlist, per usual, at the bottom. Click the “Sign Me Up!” button in the side panel to receive MOO updates in your Email…right. over. heeee-yah——>

Dear Kristen

Dear Kristen,

I can understand on a very personal level that pain and anguish can trigger spellbinding creativity. At the very least, conflict and confrontation sparks a need to respond–hell, it’s why I began writing this little blog in the first place, almost 2 years ago. Today is my four year wedding anniversary, eliciting a sappy, nostalgic mood. I recall that it was April 2008, four years ago, that I foraged into the Twilight Community for the first time. [See –> Origins Of Musings Page] And it was two years ago in 2010 that I began formulating the beginnings of what would be Musings On Other Queens ..[See–> The First Ever Musings]Big deals happening all over the place, I’m telling you. *winking at Josie Belle Cullen and @CaraNoFic*

Hello, Cover Girl

Okay, so Kristen, it’s 2008, and suddenly you are omniscient. I simply could not remain silent about the unfounded, unfair and oft times vitriolic criticism that also instantaneously emerged. Your name was uttered in households the world over…[I’m searching for the word….iconic?] and you were the most beguiling [divisive?] topic of discussion, simply because you accepted a new job in your already impressive career. I could be wrong, but I don’t know that you ever, in your wildest imagination, anticipated the maelstrom that resulted from your decision to portray the role of a seventeen-year-old human girl who fell in love with a vegetarian vampire. I don’t know that you had foreseen [and who could have?] that your mere attendance at a desert music festival this weekend would lead to new shrines and discussion boards…But for the record: You do look fantastic. And by that I mean: healthy, jubilant, inspired and amorous. Luminous. Congratulations on your face and that smile, btw. And P.S. way to rock the short-shorts, baby.

Sooo, as I was saying: I completely get that conflict and heartache certainly can be a catalyst for the creation of something big, phenomenal, even. However, this month, as your second year in your second decade of life commenced, I witnessed how positivity and love took center stage and emerged into a Celebration. You, my friend, are the reason for countless gratitudes so many hold, and that I myself have procured over the years. During your birthday week, I sat back and stared in wonderment as people–thousands, probably hundreds of thousands, maybe millions? of people–stepped forward and found their voices to express their admiration for you, because you came into being. Because you exist.

I had never been more in love with this community than I was that week. You’ve probably seen these, but they’re worth a second or twenty-second glance… oh my, my the talent.

There Are Places I Remember

A little over three weeks ago, I posted the first new Musings On Other Queens, KStew and Unconventional Beauty [yes, I full-named myself] memo after two months of being…away. It was glorious and painstaking and tedious all at once. I had taken a hiatus, because heartbreak in my personal life was affecting my ability to create. I came back because you and your fearless pursuit to know and honor Marylou of the seminal On The Road film project helped equip me with the lady balls to plow forward, onward. But it was brutal. I cannot lie, these past few months have been absolutely awful.

These days, I swing wildly between elation and terror. You have provided me this courage to follow through on my wild, maybe unreasonable, whimsy to pursue a smorgasbord of Bliss. Last week, I went to a formal job interview, the first in over a year, for a supervisor/trainer position at a counseling agency which provides support and encouragement to teenagers in neglected and underserved communities. It’s an end-of-the-line intervention before said teens turn to gangs, drugs and prostitution in their desperation for obtaining the feeling of safety, belonging and home.

this sunrise greeted me after a very dark night

I hadn’t walked into the interview with any expectations. I have a good thing going for me right now; I didn’t need (nor want) to return to bureaucracy, and certainly not after my experience with my previous job, at Bastard Nation. But I went in for the interview anyway, and the directors provided hope and fresh perspective and I suddenly felt excitementfor working with community agencies again. And they wanted me for my Other characteristics–my physical features, my youth, my unconventional perspectives. You are the catalyst who imbued the bravery I needed to even consider returning to the field, Kristen. You.

Call it the Royal Rebel Effect

Additionally, I have taken some major steps towards developing and expanding my private practice into a consulting business which would incorporate group discussions, webinars and training on grief, empowerment and resilience, my areas of expertise. This means that I am putting my credibility [and my face!!] on the line and online to share what I know (whether inherently or due to years of training and nurturing) with an audience outside of my perfect, bubble-wrapped Musings world. Like…on YouTubeand shit. Vulnerable much? I’ve got my own demons to fight, my girl, but the point is: I am owning it. I am pushing through what is to get to where I want to be. Just as you do on a daily basis. #OwnIT

gpoM

For People and Things That Went Before…

The second gratitude I have as a result of your existence is the goodness you bring via your admirers and supporters. They’re the best, Kristen, I swear to you. I know I’m biased, but I’ve been around long enough to see exceptional people exhibiting [mirroring your own?] extraordinary qualities. Four years ago, when I tip-toed unsuspectingly into the Twilight community via MTV interviews and E!Online lurkfests, I didn’t know. I didn’t fully understand the enormity and passion that you incited in people. I still am stunned by it today, honestly. But by chatting with people, watching YouTube fanvids, by meeting my CyberSisters and Readers face-to-face, I found the most incredible people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. After writing the first Musings, I received poignant, empowering emails and letters from Readers around the world. People who sought an authentic connection and held pride in representing the deviants, the Awkward Ones, the unconventional, The Others. I’ve gained lifelong, best friends and sources for inspiration. We were/are all bound by the protectiveness and admiration we hold for you, and for Robert, and your unwavering mission of authenticity.

The Kids have Chosen. YOU win.

I talk to some of these amazing people every day. EVERY. DAY. I speak to my CyberSisters and Readers more than I do my family. I have never met a more vibrant, brilliant, compassionate group of people than I have in my association with this community, the Supportive Kristen Community. And oh my gawd they’re amazing. Not only in their support of YOU, but of ME, and in OTHERS everywhere…Because they remind me every day that Other is everywhere.

Love of Mad Ones, the ones who burnburnburn, via Sydney, AUS ~@Mel452

Finding the courage to take risks, to follow Bliss via Portugal ~ @dizzy_ladybug

expression through music and cultural pride via Indonesia ~ @Ichaluvcat

Reminders that authenticity is Other is Beautiful via Florida, USA ~ @that_bitch101

…In my life, I’ve Loved Them All

As do you, Ms Stewart. You model for us a congruent Otherness that is unparalleled.You have been a pristine Ambassador of Other for Musings. You have been both a candle burning steadily and a mirror, reflecting the luminosity of Royal Rebels abound. You have worn the crown on your head, even through turbulent waters, gracefully and relentlessly.

I had no inkling of an idea that I would stumble into the cavernous treasure trove of possibility, friendship, support, love, passion and courage when I joined the murmured discussion about a young woman named Kristen Stewart all those years ago. But today I can see that it was serendipitous that I did. This little Musings Letter is merely my attempt at expressing sentiments that are nearly impossible to articulate–my utmost gratitude for the existence of you. Thank you. You have beatified my life profoundly, and probably obliviously. I bow down in awe, humility and respect to you, nonetheless. Happy Birthday, Kristen Jaymes Stewart.

Love and Light, KJ

She Reigns. #OtherQueen

* * *

[QUESTION:] Where were you in April four years ago, three years ago, two years ago….?

[A/N:] Today is N’s and my four-year wedding anniversary. It’s all love, which is good, because there felt to be an absence of genuine respect floating out there in our fandom…and in my 3D life too.So in essence, this letter is a celebratory reminder of Kristen, of this outrageously entertaining and beloved fandom, and of the people I’ve met, known and learned from these four years.

I didn’t update as soon as I had hoped, but I didn’t let two months slip by again. Seriously, thank you for your utmost patience and kindness as I work through The Stuff. I hope to be back with you even sooner, but not after I return from my little vacay. Leaving for Washington D.C., Raleigh, NC and possibly New York on Friday to see family and dear friends. And because I have needed a vacation desperately for a very long time. See you when I return. And to prepare for the epicness that will be #Cannes. My BODY. IS. READY.

* * *

* * *

This Letter’s PLAYLIST

::: Fires by Shady Bard

::: Hold On by Alabama Shakes

* * *

**Heading titles are lyrics from Lennon & McCartney’s/ The Beatles’ In My Life

A/N: The images displayed in this essay are not mine–Thank Goddess for Tumblr, Pinterest and Imagebam. Click the image for a link to its origins. Tragically unbeta’d. Any mistakes and typos in this post as well as 3 different thesauri belong to MEEEEEE. Musical playlist, per usual, at the bottom. While I try to normalize a posting schedule, click the “Sign Me Up!” button in the side panel to receive MOO updates in your Email…thissss-a-wayyy——>

“There is one word which may serve as a rule of practice for all one’s life: reciprocity.” ~Confucius

Hello my stunning, Royal Rebels. I hope this new post finds you and your families healthy and well. When I said last time that I’d “update on Thursday”, per the usual posting schedule, I bet ya’ll didn’t think I meant Thursday-in-a-week-then-add-a-day-or-two-so-that-it’s-really-Superbowl-weekend did ya?? Yeah. Because that’s what happened, though not premeditated. Just keepin you on your toes. Dance, honey, dance.

'cause The Rhythm is gonna get ya

I admit it: I had intended to post the highest-voted [and final] Moment of Otherness for The MOO STEW REVIEW by last Thursday, but I became detained. Detained by my self-imposed cocoon, in all honesty. Between the car accident and the insurance company battle and a new teaching schedule with Red Cross, I simply had no room to breathe, let alone post. I ended up taking a “personal” day last week and I stayed in my PJs the whole time, #NoRegrets. It was my only day off. And it was bliss.

Wanna know what else is blissful? Kristen Jaymes Stewart. This whole week was like a dream. We had the feeling she was about to burst onto the scene, but the combination of two of my very favorite nouns was too much for me to comprehend. Too much. Turns out, we didn’t know anything.

Oh mon, tu es belle

+

=

Yeah. So Kristen arrives in one of my very favorite places ever [seriously, my love for Paris knows no bounds] appearing casual, flawless and with a knowing smile on January 30th, without pomp or circumstance. JB, Kristen’s handsome bodyguard, and her buzz-cut sporting assistant John [do we need to talk about all the newly shorn heads belonging to the men in Kristen’s life? Is this a new club initiation?] protectively flanked Her Royal Highness as she glided through Charles de Gualle Airport. Towards well..bliss evidently.

It takes a special girl to command my attention over Haute Couture and Karl Lagerfeld

Speculation as to why Ms Stewart was in the City of Lights ranged from prep work for her new Balenciaga campaign to a photo shoot for one of the three movies she was releasing this year. But, no. Kristen was in Paris to shoot a photo spread for Vanity Fair. Her photographer? Legendary, gifted, beautiful Mario Testino. The fashion? Dior. Haute Couture. On-set visitors? Oh, hello, Karl Lagerfeld, head fashion designer and creative director ofChanel [cue screaming, flailing].

I’m pretty sure Karl is just as captivated by Kristen as we are. And Kristen? NO question about it, you have arrived. You are relevant. You are sensational. You are a B.F.D.

Not just because you rocked a couture Dior ball gown [perhaps the most beautiful gown I have ever laid eyes upon] on the chilly streets of one of the most romantic, inspiring cities in existence and a fascinator [who, pray tell, could pull that headpiece off with any semblance of authenticity? Only Kristen Stewart], but because when you stepped out in between shoots and hanging with legendary designers and artists, you did so, looking like this:

Kristen stopped, signed autographs and greeted the growing crowd of admirers gathering at her hotel, or on the streets and cafes where the photo shoot took place. All while exhibiting a graciousness and poise that only royalty can.

So I could wax poetic for days about the brief glimpses of gorgeousness we received while Kristen was in Paris for a mere 48 hours. But there are so many other people who know what they’re talking about who could–and have–present incredibly informed commentrees on ParisianStew. I suggest you read those….

For Haute Couture goodness and witty brilliance, go read my girl CC’s post ‘J’Adore’ —–> KSIBTU I will simply wait until that Vanity Fair issue releases, [probably in May, to mark the opening of the highly anticipated SWATH?] and try not to lose my shite every time a new picture surfaces. When that article and photo shoot is on newsstands, we’ll talk. Oui? So check out KSIBTU’s fantastic thoughts, and I will stick to what I do best: Muse on Otherness.

Premiers secours Psychologiques

One reason why Kristen Stewart is our Head Ambassador of Otherness is because despite her anxieties steeped in facing swarms of people, she still took time in her ridonk 48-hr whirlwind visit in Paris to acknowledge her admirers. But the detractors and haters–The Bullshit People as we know them here in Otherland–didn’t recognize her generosity and graciousness. Not when they could instead pick apart Ms Stewart’s actions and paint her as a crass, murderous-intending spawn after her interaction with actual crass, greedy spawn: the paparazzi.

You all know that I elect to not waste any particular energy addressing or acknowledging the existence of the drama llamas. I am only noting this instance because it aligns so perfectly with an epiphany in my own 3D work. I’m an instructor of disaster response and mental health with #TheRedCross, and you all listened to me screech and celebrate my certification last fall. Well, last week, I was honored and proud to instruct my first class of new Red Cross Disaster Responders. The class? Psychological First Aid. But people didn’t come to my class to learn how to do CPR and keep a body alive at the time of cardiac arrest. No, the course I taught was first aid for the heart and soul. What I essentially learned, is that this course really could be renamed Human Decency 101, and that quite a few of us could use a refresher in it. What a revolutionary thought, hmmm? A course on the basic tenants of humanity: compassion and presence.

The first wave of folks I’d encourage enrollment into Psychological First Aid? The Bullshit People, the Stalkerazzi, the detractors and destroyers hell-bent on tearing Kristen Stewart and all Unconventional Beauties [Others] down. If you check the sequence of events that occurred in the above gifs, you see Kristen Stewart, internationally known personality and Rebel Queen, stopping to sign autographs and exchange a few words with her fans. What you also should notice, is the frenzied, intrusive presence of the camera clowns and stalkerazzi snapping away and encroaching on Kristen and her fans’ personal, physical space.

What you’re witnessing is the breakdown of empathy–the Empathy Erosion–or the objectification [dehumanizing, depersonalizing] of a person due to lack of human relating as Dr Simon Baron-Cohen cites in his fascinating research The Science of Evil by Basic Books Publications. [This has been added to MOO’s Resources of Beautypage]. We’ll talk more about Dr Baron-Cohen’s work in the next MOO, because I find it startlingly relevant for our community, for Kristen and her Royal Consort Robert…and in our pursuit of Othering ONWARD. The photogs and even some hyperactive blog trollers have negated the fact that the target at the end of the camera lens is a human being. A woman. A person.

looking better than ANYONE ever does after a trans-atlantic flight. Girlfriend probs wants some recupe time, non?

I approach the concepts of Empathy Erosion and Psychological First Aid tonight because upon surveying this odd and fascinating fandom’s way of interacting, especially during a perceived “drought”, I’m asking us all to be aware of any compassion refresher points we may need. Because in watching those CameraClowns/Vultures swarm and circle Kristen Stewart this week, and in reading snarky, entitled bloggers and commenters pot-stirring, I wonder to where the compassion disappeared.

When did it become the norm, to overlook the basic needs of a human being?

Administering Psychological First Aid

(aka, how to provide compassionate presence in response to a disaster and trauma)

(aka, Human Decency 101)

Make the connection. ~ Say hello, introduce yourself. Establish that you, a fellow being, are here. You’re not just a spectator. You’re in this too.

Help people be safe. ~Move the person to a warm, dry, stable place to sit, away from the stressors. It’s not the time to stare as if it’s a gladiator arena spectacle…or The Hunger Games.

Simple, right? Common sense…or is it? Why is that kindness, subjectivity, empathy and compassionate presence are taken for granted? Is it the slow endangerment of genuine face-to-face interactions with the rise in internet-centric “social” networks? #WeSeeYouNerdyBloggers

Of the many human interactions I’ve been privy to these weeks, I’ve been shocked and disappointed with choices made. The person who slammed into me and my car a couple of weeks ago, blatantly lied to the insurance companies and said I hit him. I can’t even talk about this event yet–it makes my heart hurt and a coil spring in my head. That same night of the accident, I had to file a police report and toy around with the idea of calling Child Protective Services because a mother abandoned her child in my department (one of my three jobs is as a manager for the children’s department in a bookstore) so “mother” could go off drinking with friends at the mall.

That night, I questioned, over booze: Where has the love gone? Do people have no scruples any more? I know you generous, uncommonly compassionate and brilliant Others are apart of the renaissance amour, because I’ve seen you, your presence is felt. It’s incredibly reassuring and staggering for me to know you’re out there. Hopefully, our Reigning Queen of Otherness feels you as well.

Nous sommes au Numéro Un

*waves hands to dispel the joo-joo and rein in focus* Now, rather than spend any more energy on empathizing with the un-empathetic vultures, I’ve a major Other Countdown to wrap up. Let’s get ‘er done, friends. As we established in the preceding three parts to The MOO Stew Review, our Reigning Other Queen dominated most of 2011.

But there was one moment that prevailed as the most notable Moment of Otherness in 2011, according to Musings readers. OtherBeautyCominAtcha.

OoO_OoO

Remember, you guise? Remember this??? Remember when Ms Stewart arrived in London wearing a stunning, beaded, halter Roberto Cavalli gown and towering Jimmy Choo heels? When she paired an Alexander McQueen belt to accentuate her tiny waist and assets in a way that should have been banned for the level of sexy glamorous-ness? When her make up was flawless and her long Snow White tresses were pulled back halfway back to showcase her exquisite shoulders….and face?

You remember. Obviously you do, because this night, November 16, 2011, was voted as your number one Moment of Otherness in the MOO Stew Review. I remember feeling and truly hearing a collective sigh across the internets and in my own living room as Kristen emerged beneath the trellis at Westfield Stratford, London, in the wintry outside air to greet the crowds who’d been camping out for days to see her and her boys [Robert, Taylor, Wyck Godfrey and Bill Condon] at the UK World Premiere. It is as though that evening was the unveiling to the world: Kristen Stewart crossed over an old threshold of beautiful. And we all knew it. He certainly did.

Of course, Robert, our Poet Warrior, Kristen’s Other-Partner-in-Crime acknowledged the sanctity of such an uncommonly lovely creature for years by this point, but there was a heightened awareness and prideful declaration of affection and unity on this evening.

Byway of countless nonverbal expressions [lingering touches, adoring glances, physical proximity, tactile reassurances], Kristen and Robert honored their partnership, their devotion and their pride for one another. . .all while inhabitants of Rob’s home town looked on.

The Pretty is blinding

Soooo….There you have it. You Beauties have been extraordinarily kind and patient as I have grappled with ways to connect with Otherness, our Reigning Other Queen and you all while seeking the elusive balance and some first aid for my soul. Your suggestions and emails and kind words of encouragement have been my fuel. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for being so incredible. And thank you for sending in your thoughts which resulted in this four-part MOO Stew Review.

This is what we know now. Kristen Jaymes Stewart has thrown down the gauntlet. She is here, she is present, and she is poised to explode across the sky in 2012. Our survey of 2011 alluded to greatness that will soon come into fruition. Case in point:

It’s safe to say we’re in for an extraordinary, rebellious, beautiful year. Happy New Stew Year, my Other Rebels.

We are Other.

Kristen is Other.

Others resist empathy erosion.

Embrace your Other.

* * *

A/N: HAPPY SUPERBOWL WEEKEND, for those of you who watch, support, celebrate.

I’m eternally grateful to all of you who have checked in and let me know that you’re there while I’ve tumbled through some of the roughest weeks of my life. Special shout-outs to my CyberSisters and Readers who are army-crawling through the muck with me right now. (light and love to: Peri.Jai. Aai. Believe.)

To my Twitter Lovelies who always peek in and whisper-encourage that I keep going (side-eyes @deedreamer16 and @mycleveralias).

I do hope to be back next Thursday with our discussion on Empathy and Humanity. Thanks for giving me wide berth as I try to stay on schedule. Until then, be kind and well and I will see you soon. #OtherOn xo, KJ

ESSAY PLAYLIST:

The Hideout ~ Sarah Harmer *spotty live version on player, may be removed*

A/N: The images displayed in this essay are not mine–Thank Goddess for Tumblr, Pinterest and Google Images. Click the image for a link to pics’ origins. Very unbeta’d– any mistakes and typos in this post as well as my beautiful new beach cruiser [with gears!] belong to MEEEEEE. Musical playlist, per usual, at the bottom. While I work on regulating the posting schedule, click the “Sign Me Up!” button in the side panel to receive MOO notifications in your Email…thissss-a-wayyy——>

*Determinedly keeps eyes downcast, scuffs the toe of my Chucks in the ground* Hi there. I truly had planned to post the Top Two Moments of The Stew Review last week, just a day or so after Part 2. I would love nothing more than to tell you all about the hoopla that contributed to the delay of posting. Maybe, when we message each other, or perhaps when I can rediscover coherency again, we’ll hash it out. But I don’t want to take any more time away from honoring and celebrating the way Kristen Stewart, our Ambassador of Other, brought the year 2011 to a close. And you lovely, generous, patient Musers came through and submitted your thoughts on the Best Moments of Otherness for the Stew Review, for which I am eternally grateful. So let’s bring this one home, kids, yes?

hells yeah

Ok, I know we’re missing Kristen and her devoted, lovely Robert. But my Goddess they deserve a break from the chaos that has been their life the past few months. And in the “drought” [is it really a drought, or a concept created by bored, too-invested people with few outside interests or fulfilling personal connections?] of Royal sightings, there has been a startling emergence of obscenely nutty, decidedly distant “family” members’ blogs, and a bazillion world-wide “sightings” cropping up every single hour… yawn. In other words…the usual dysfunction, I guess?

I feel it’s especially important now to rein it in, guise. BACK.TO.THE.BASICS. What’s the use in expending energy on absurd rumors and theories when we can celebrate Unconventional Beauty and actual accomplishments amongst fellow Others and of a particularly majestic Queen?

oh yes. That's right.

A final retrospective of 2011 is essential now because we’re about to kick Twenty-Twelve up a notch. Only a few weeks into January and already the sense of reverence and accomplishment convinces me that this year is going to be our Other Queen’s fiercest showing yet. I mean….really?

Since our last Musing session, the Spanish fashion line Balenciaga introduced the world to their new spokesmodel for their women’s fragrance . I think it is so pristinely apt that our edgy, provocative Royal Rebel was chosen as the ambassador for a line that is known for it’s cutting edge and unconventional expressions.

~ Catherine Walsh of American Fragrance

Well, Catherine Walsh, Senior Vice President of American Fragrance for Cody Prestige, you have exquisite taste, Madame. I think the pairing of our Rebel Queen and the intriguing Balenciaga is extremely complementary. Pitch perfect, actually. What do you think of Ms Stewart’s newest gig, Lovelies?

There is something almost poetic about Kristen representing a highly influential fashion line for 2012, as she concludes her role as Isabella Swan Cullen in Breaking Dawn Part 2 within the same year . She ventured forward with first steps onto the Twilight premiere’s Red Carpet of 2008 wearing Balenciaga, after all…

In the beginning

Immortalized Impressions

Ms Stewart’s debut at the Los Angeles premiere of Twilight four years ago certainly made an impression. However, a literal impression made on November 3, 2011 at the famed Grauman’s Chinese Theater in Hollywood was Musings Readers’ second most celebrated Moment of Otherness for the 2011 MOO Stew Review.

Now…this event was actually among my personal Top 3 Moments of Otherness as well. So I wasn’t terribly surprised that it was so high on your lists. You’ll need to tell me why this was such a significant event for you and in Kristen’s Timeline of BadAssery. I can only speak of my own ruminations as to why this hand-and-footprint concretization (does anyone else sorta laugh when it’s referred to as an Imprinting Ceremony??) ranked as an exceptional occasion…

S’been a long time, Baby.

Ms Stewart had been months-deep into filming Snow White and the Huntsman in the UK by this point. We hadn’t seen much of her except for those glorious film caps in which she was an armored, strategizing, warrior princess.

It had been quite some time since we’d really seen Kristen…

Leeeegggggs

But in her Marios Schwab halter dress and Brian Atwood pin heels…we were smacked with a reminder real quick why just a glimpse of Kristen Stewart could be powerful enough to resuscitate the dead.

Buoyant Contentedness

I was struck by several notions when viewing the hand-printing ceremony via live stream and in screen caps. She was unadulterated, unhindered, free. She was joy personified.

In a brief moment addressing the amorous crowd before sinking into the cement, Kristen said:

“I’ve been so enamored by this business, Hollywood…I think this is the coolest thing I’ve ever done in my life!”

And later, after the ceremony in a whirlwind press junket, Kristen giddily recounted to several interviewers including the splendid @JoshuaHorowitz of MTV and Entertainment Weekly on how remarkably honored and awed she was by the experience. Her pride and grace and unhindered happiness seeped from her every pore. It was a sight to behold.

Satellites In Motion

So perhaps it was a combination of all the above: because it was such a momentous occasion, literally cementing her place in Hollywood Mythology; and because her proud friends and family were there; because she’d been away in London for months that a contented, beaming, buoyant Kristen Stewart greeted us this day. But also an unguarded, uncensored, more affectionately tactile Kristen Stewart was present. She and her buddy Taylor were as sibling-sweet as always, but it was the mutually admiring electricity between Ms Stewart and Mr Pattinson that once again, captivated.

. . .not even concrete could deny the draw between them.

must. always. be. close.

Authenticity and Congruency

So in her humble blissfulness and in light of the enormous honor bestowed upon her, our Reigning Queen did not lose her casual, grounded unique Kristen-ness on the sidewalk of that world-famous Hollywood landmark. No, instead, she quickly reeled herself in and allowed a sensibility to reside. And a new game of Spot The Rebel commenced. This may have been my favorite moment of all. Or. I dunno. I can’t pick. But the second Kristen looked to the ever-lovely Ruth for support while she removed her Brian Atwood Pin Heels to exchange them for her classic Vans…I swooned.

classic, checkered skateboarding Vans? Ruth's got yo back.

THIS event, my lovelies, was your second most celebrated Moment of Otherness for 2011’s Stew Review. The handprints, the foot prints, the giddy pride, the clasping of muddy hands…the moments of sheer adoration between Kristen and Robert…the moment when Ms Stewart tuned out the cameras and the crowds and the jetlag…and kicked off her couture heels in exchange for her flat Vans trainers.

Hey. I'm Kristen. I'm Other.

OH-kaaay…That was Moment Numero Dos. So I’ll wrap this baby up by Thursday, so we are free to rejoice the Royal Rebel awesomeness that we shall bear witness to starting this week…We’ve got a MovieFone interview with the SWATH Cast, an MTV/JoshHorowitz interview in the works…we’ve news that the blessed, the legendary, the poetic On The Road featuring our MarylouStew is going to Cannes in May and Robert’s Bel Ami [featuring a bad, bad Duroy] is debuting at the Berlin Film Festival next month….*already beginning to hyperventilate*…

Last year was ah-may-zing, no doubt, for our Rebel Queen and her Royal Partner-In-Crime. But 2012 is going to dominate. Looking forward to riding alongside you, Lovelies. Until next time [very soon]…continue pushing onward and keeping your head above the fray. xo, KJ

Embrace your Other.

A/N: I miss you all terribly but I assure you I am fighting tooth and nail for Musings to continue forward. I’m still here. Pesky car accidents, insurance company arguments, parental surgeries, neglectful, abusive clients and police reports be damned. I’ll see you soon to finish up The Stew Review and welcome 2012, The LalapaSTEWza, properly.

A/N: The images displayed in this essay are not mine–Thank Goddess for Tumblr, Pinterest and Google Images. Click the image for a link to pics’ origins. Very unbeta’d– any mistakes and typos punya saya (‘belong to me’ in Indonesian). Musical playlist, per usual, at the bottom. While I work on stabilizing the posting schedule, click the “Sign Me Up!” button in the side panel to receive MOO notifications in your Email…thissss-a-wayyy——>

“When you possess light within, you see it externally.” ~Anaïs Nin

It feels so lovely to be back with you Other Royals. You were uncommonly kind to me with your comments and reactions to Part 1 of the Stew Review last Thursday, and many of you fangirled with me as we remembered some of our Other Queen’s highlights from 2011. And they were the Honorable Mentions, not even your Top 3! I wanted to post all the Top voted Moments at once, but I found that each moment had a sorta-kinda partner moment occurring at the same time and I needed the proper space to honor them.

Let’s continue on now with Part 2 of the Best Of Moments for our Reigning Other Queen, as elected by Musings Readers. The third most memorable Kristen Stewart Moment of 2011 centered around this stunning photo shoot and interview, which came at us from near-obscurity.

When we caught the first glimpses of W Magazine‘s September issue, it was via a 20-second preview on Entertainment Tonight. I can’t pinpoint the exact date, though you CSI super sleuths among the community could probably tell me not only the date but the time the first images of a smoldering, 60’s Pin-up-inspired Kristen Stewart hit the airwaves. She had been cruising under the radar in the UK prepping and filming Snow White and the Huntsman, and we had been preparing for a quiet few months, void of Other Queen sightings until the Breaking Dawn promo ramped up in November. All I know is that in those final days of August into the beginning of September, it was a spectacular time to be Other…and we witnessed the commencement, The Emergence of Royalty. Because really…? Kristen dominated the final quarter of 2011.

Your third most-referenced and noted moment for the MOO Stew Review revolved around this shoot and the interview accompanying it. Why, I wonder? It could be that Breaking Dawn–the final book of the Twilight Saga, and the next-to-last film in the series–had completed filming, and Ms Stewart was already immersed in production of her first post-Twi Saga project. It may have been the first time that those of us following Kristen’s career for the past four years could truly envision her as a completely separate entity, outside of the world of Forks, Washington. We, alongside Kristen, grew…progressed…evolved together. We met a lovely seventeen-year-old girl back in 2008. . .

And holy bejeebus the past four years were so generous with her.

People were split on the reactions to the photos from this shoot, however. And I truly understand why. The thickly lined eyes combined with the extremely high hair was little off-putting and arguably serve as concealer of the natural-faced, hoodie-and-Chucks-wearing Royal Rebel we are accustomed to seeing and celebrating.

Conversely, the almost overwhelming sensuality and femininity that rolls off of Ms Stewart in rivers, only accentuates and confirms the undeniable: Kristen Jaymes Stewart is all woman, all grown up.

And for me, what made this interview and W Magazine experience so phenomenal, aside from the differing views and reactions to the pictures, were Kristen’s answers taken from the screen test video. These insightful, candid and light reflections [listen to the interviewer cackle gleefully at several of Kristen’s answers] produced some of my very favorite Kristen quotes of the year. As submitted by my girl @TheRainGirl4, here is the video. Take a gander at our Queen, who is in fact, a BFD.

So when you all sent in your votes for your Favorite Other Moments of Royalty for 2011, some of you didn’t specify which part of W Magazine claimed your heart. The above video encompassed many of your suggestions, including the highest-voted favorite quote.

“After that [final filming] scene…I felt like I could shoot up into the night sky and every pore of my body would shoot light. I felt lighter than I’ve ever felt in my life.”

And oh how she lit up the sky.

Thank you, Lovelies, for sharing your thoughts. You all light up my world. You have no idea how you’ve provided sustenance for me these days. I’m experiencing some dark patches, and you help illuminate the path.

I’m hoping you’ll continue to share your thoughts as we count down the remaining top Moments of Otherness you elected in the next installment of the MOO Stew Review, which I will post in the next couple days. Until then, be well and be kind to each other. #OtherOn xo, KJ

We are Other.

Kristen is Other.

Others possess a light within that can be seen externally.

Embrace your Other.

A/N: This post and it’s playlist is dedicated to the ladies I have called my Cyber Sisters for over two years. I can see and feel you though we are apart.